Change is afoot in our family. My parents recently decided to put their home on the market and look for a smaller place that will be easier for them to maintain now that their advancing years play havoc with their energy levels.
I know it wasn’t an easy decision. Mom and Dad have put a lot of themselves into their little corner of the Missouri hills. They’ll really miss the place they’ve called home for over twenty years now. All of us will miss it, too. Their home in the Ozarks has been a place of refuge and refreshment for each of us. My Fall Family Time post gave you a peek, in fact, at Mom and Dad’s home in the hills as well as the wonderful family times we’ve enjoyed there.
We most recently visited on Easter weekend. Right before we headed home, I stepped out in the backyard to take some photos and soak up the beauty once more, unsure of how many more opportunities like that I’ll have.
After a few minutes, Dad came out and joined me. Not only was it a beautiful afternoon, but their view always sends my spirit soaring. All felt so peaceful as the wind chimes added perfect accompaniment to nature’s glory. Dad pointed out a couple of sights in particular and then said, “We’ve had a good run here.”
I think that moment will stay with me forever. I get sad even now thinking about it. I know they are ready to move on, but I also know it will not be easy when the time comes. Goodbyes can be hard, can’t they?
For now, it’s time to look ahead to the next good thing God has in store for Mom and Dad. More beauty, more joy, more peace, I’m sure. More work for the Kingdom and more glorious days walking with the King. Yes, that’s what’s ahead for them—more!
Might God be showing any of us that it’s time to move on in a certain area of our lives? If so, let’s thank Him for a good run and then follow His lead. After all, more is ahead!
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11
*Do you have a moving-on story to share?
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*Flickr photo by Zach Dischner
Very nicely written, Cheryl. And yes, that brings tears to my eyes, also.
I know that feeling, Cheryl. Sad, but still a normal step in the journey of life. I pray everything will go according to His perfect will. I know there’ll be great things ahead!
I totally understand your parents’ desire to downsize, Cheryl. The season of life they’re in probably demands it, but like you said, God has MORE good things in store for your parents…for ALL of us when we move on.
Blessings to you!
Boy, I can’t imagine how difficult the decision to downsize must have been on your parents. I hope that they love their new home just as well.
Well, this makes me weepy as well. I have so many moving on stories… a lifetime’s worth. All will be well if I can get to the end of this earthly road and say, “I’ve had a good run here.”
Just beautiful.
peace~elaine
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